Visible Minorities

The issue of fair treatment for First Nations people and visible minorities
needs to be continually re-examined but in a larger context. While police
forces are justifiably criticized for failing to properly deal with people
from visible minorities, they are not the only Canadian occupational
group that needs to be held publicly accountable in addressing this social
issue. Some degree of racism and racial profiling exists in many segments
of Canadian society, despite this country’s strong bent towards multiculturalism.
A recent newspaper headline reads: "Racism haunts Canada’s first
aboriginal judge; ‘You never get rid of that feeling,’ says new member
of Ontario Court of Appeal." (Makin "Racism").

The interrelationship
between contemporary law and the status of First Nations people continues
to preoccupy the courts and law reform bodies in Canada. The Supreme
Court decision in the Drybones case of
1969, affirming that the Indian
Act denied First Nations people equality before the law, initiated
a review process that continues to this day. This process has indirect
if not direct implications for law enforcement personnel throughout Canada.
The writings of Rupert Ross and Colin Sampson describe in poignant terms
how racism affects the enforcement of the law (Ross Dancing; A Way of
Life 316-325).

Third party complaints
Legislation in most jurisdictions
makes no provision for third party complaints (Wortley Civilian Governance).
If a complaints system is to be accessible, compassionate and ethnically
and socially sensitive, then provision needs to be made for those who
cannot lodge a complaint in the usual manner – the illiterate, linguistically
incapable, and socially disadvantaged.

Developing Specialized Structures & Other
Mechanisms
One oversight body may not be adequate to assume all of
the functions necessary to create a high degree of civic governance.
Other
options may need to be explored. Some jurisdictions, for example, have
developed specialized permanent structures such as police ombudsmen
and complaints directorates. These special agencies are increasingly
being
created to strengthen the expertise, resources and independence of
civilian oversight of police (Stone and Merrick). Stone and Ward also
provide
a summary of potential entry points for further reforms in civil governance
(Democratic Policing).